Fetoscopy

Fetoscopy is an endoscopic procedure during pregnancy to allow access to the fetus, the amniotic cavity, the umbilical cord, and the fetal side of the placenta. A small (3–4 mm) incision is made in the abdomen, and an endoscope is inserted through the abdominal wall and uterus into the amniotic cavity. Fetoscopy allows medical interventions such as a biopsy or a laser occlusion of abnormal blood vessels or the treatment of spina bifida. The field of surgical fetoscopy was developed by Dr. Ruben Quintero.